Daikin McQuay to invest $9.2 million to upgrade operations in Augusta County

Daikin McQuay, a subsidiary of Daikin Industries Ltd., will invest $9.2 million to expand its operation in Augusta County. The company, the world’s largest global manufacturer of commercial heating, ventilating, air conditioning, refrigeration and building management equipment and systems, said the upgrade will help its ability to generate energy-saving global chiller products. The project is expected to create 50 new jobs.

Gov. McDonnell met with Daikin Industries Ltd. officials in Japan during his Asia Marketing Mission in 2011. He also met with the company in New York City on marketing trips in 2011 and 2012.

Speaking about Wednesday’s announcement, McDonnell said, “I am thrilled to see this project come to fruition … These facility upgrades will not only create 50 new jobs, they will also enable market growth, and allow energy-saving HVAC innovation and product improvements to happen on U.S. soil.”

Julie Smith, Daikin McQuay vice president and general manager, chiller products, noted the company’s long, nearly 60-year history in Augusta County. “These new investments will allow us to expand our ability to develop industry leading chiller products,” she said.

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Augusta County to secure the project. Gov. McDonnell approved a $250,000 grant from the Governor’s Opportunity Fund . The Virginia Department of Business Assistance also will provide funding and services to support the company’s recruitment and training activities.